When I visit any cathedral, it reminds me of being with my grandparents. They weren't particularly religious, but my grandfather was obsessed with architecture.

The quote "When I visit any cathedral, it reminds me of being with my grandparents. They weren't particularly religious, but my grandfather was obsessed with architecture." by Jonathan Anderson reveals a deeply personal connection between architecture and memory, specifically tied to family experiences. Anderson, a celebrated fashion designer and creative director of the brand JW Anderson, reflects on how cathedrals, typically viewed through the lens of religion, evoke a different kind of reverence for him—one rooted in personal history and a shared appreciation for architectural beauty.

Although his grandparents were not religious, Anderson’s grandfather’s fascination with architecture shaped the way he himself views and emotionally responds to these monumental spaces. This underscores how architecture transcends its original purpose, becoming a vessel for emotional resonance, storytelling, and intergenerational bonds. The cathedral, in this context, is not just a house of worship, but a symbol of awe, structure, and aesthetic inspiration that links Anderson back to cherished moments with his family.

The quote also highlights the power of architectural spaces to evoke nostalgia and identity. For Anderson, stepping into a cathedral is not about spirituality in the traditional sense, but about experiencing form, light, and space in a way that echoes his grandfather’s passion. It shows how architecture can imprint itself on our personal narratives, becoming a trigger for memory and a bridge between past and present.

This quote likely comes from interviews or public discussions in which Anderson shared the influences behind his design philosophy. Known for blending craft, history, and emotion in his fashion work, Anderson’s appreciation for architectural form and detail has often been credited to his early experiences. His reflection serves as a reminder that architecture impacts not only how we build and dwell—but how we remember, feel, and connect with the people and places that shape us.